JODHPUR, April 3 -- In a significant development in sustainable materials research, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur has developed a patented technology that converts agricultural residue and plastic waste into high-performance construction materials. The innovation is aimed at promoting circular and climate-resilient infrastructure. The research is led by Dr. Priyabrata Rautray, Assistant Professor at the School of Design. It introduces two new construction materials-Bio-Bricks and Agro-Plastic Blocks (APBs)-which combine agricultural waste, plastic waste and material engineering. The Bio-Bricks are produced through a patented process that converts crop residues such as paddy straw, wheat straw and sugarcane bagasse into building blocks using a low-energy lime-based formulation. Unlike traditional bricks, these bricks do not require kiln firing, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to researchers, Bio-Bricks can also act as carbon-negative materials because they store more carbon dioxide during their lifecycle than the amount released during production. They can also be recycled and reused, reducing the dependence on fertile topsoil and other energy-intensive raw materials. The second innovation, Agro-Plastic Blocks, combines mixed plastic waste with agricultural residue to create durable construction blocks. The blocks are produced through a low-energy thermal fusion and compression process, allowing even non-recyclable and mixed plastic waste to be used without complex recycling systems. The blocks also provide improved thermal and acoustic insulation and can be produced through decentralised manufacturing systems, making them suitable for regions with limited recycling infrastructure. Researchers say that together, Bio-Bricks and Agro-Plastic Blocks create a closed-loop construction system in which agricultural and plastic waste are directly used as building materials. The technologies have been supported by academic research and have been presented through international publications. Their feasibility has also been demonstrated through built prototypes, including India's first Bio-Brick structure and the ongoing development of a Bio-Brick housing unit at IIT Jodhpur. Dr Priyabrata Rautray said, "The aim is to move beyond waste management and develop carbon-negative and circular systems that can transform the way buildings are constructed."...